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Uniworld expands all-inclusive options on Europe trips

Uniworld Boutique River Cruises is going more all-inclusive in Europe starting in 2014. The upscale river line this month announced it would offer complimentary fine wine, beer and spirits around the clock on

Uniworld expands all-inclusive options on Europe trips

River cruise line Uniworld's River Empress sailing in Europe.(Photo: Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection)

Uniworld Boutique River Cruises is expanding its all-inclusive options in Europe starting in 2014.

The upscale river line says it will offer complimentary wine, beer and spirits around the clock on ships in Europe starting in 2014, as well as complimentary gratuities for onboard and onshore services.

Uniworld already offers passengers on its Europe ships non-alcoholic beverages, wine and beer at lunches and dinners for no extra cost. Guided shore excursions; Internet access; and arrival and departure day transfers already are included in base fares at the line.

The addition of complimentary drinks at any time and complimentary gratuities leaves no major items on Uniworld ships in Europe for which passengers have to pay extra.

Uniworld is the only North American river cruise line to announce a move to an all-inclusive experience on Europe trips — something that is more common at luxury cruise lines with ocean-going ships.

"Similar to the high-end luxury ocean cruise lines, such as Crystal, Regent, and Silversea, Uniworld is dedicated to creating the most luxurious and worry-free experience for our valued guests," Uniworld president Guy Young says in a statement accompanying the line's announcement. "By offering an all-inclusive vacation, our guests won't need to worry about ancillary items such as tipping as everything will be included in the price, so all our guests will need to do is relax and enjoy their vacation."